David M. Duncan

David Michael Duncan, lovingly known as Dave to his friends and family, passed away on July 26th, 2024, at the age of 69, in San Antonio, Texas, after a valiant battle with pancreatic cancer. Born on August 27th, 1954, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, to the late James Duncan and Belva Smith, Dave's effervescence and his selfless spirit were evident from the onset.

Dave is survived by his wife of 47 years, Terri Duncan, who has been his steadfast companion through every twist and turn of life's journey. He leaves behind his beloved daughter, Krystle Arndt and her husband, Alan, as well as his cherished grandchildren, Margaret "Maggie" and Alan "AJ," who were the light of his world. Also mourning his loss are his siblings, Karen Schooley, Rene Mateo, and Rick Furmanek, as well as nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends whom he considered as close as family.

Dave's passion for learning and design began at McLain High School, where he graduated in the class of 1972. He went on to receive a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Design and a Master of Architecture both from the University of Oklahoma (BOOMER SOONER).

His commitment to architecture led him to a respected career with the Tulsa District US Army Corps of Engineers as an architect and supervisory architect. Dave's talents shone as the Lead Designer of Critical Facilities on Tinker Air Force Base and later as a Project Manager at the Construction Management Directorate with the Air Force Center for Environmental Excellence. Respected for his expertise and dedication, Dave became a charter member of the Air Force Design Group and served as a Senior Architect with the Air Force Civil Engineer Center. His role as the Air Force Subject Matter Expert for Facility Design & Construction Standards was instrumental in the Facilities Engineering Directorate. His work received the highest accolades when, as Project Manager of the USAF Design Awards Program, he earned the Federal Design Achievement Award as part of the 2000 Presidential Design Awards Program.

Throughout his esteemed career with the Department of Defense, Dave's professional journey took him to 16 countries, 78 installations, and 46 U.S. states, establishing a legacy of excellence and commitment.

Dave's interests were as vast as the landscapes he loved to explore. A true adventurer at heart, he relished riding his bicycle through the Texas Hill Country, and bicycling from his Texas home to the Oklahoma/Kansas border was an annual tradition. His dreams of a coast-to-coast ride began to materialize as he tackled segments with close friends including riding from Savannah, Georgia, to Key West, Florida, and along the Natchez Trail from Nashville, Tennessee, to Jackson, Mississippi.

Dave’s love for RVing led him to encounter new faces and stories, reaffirming his belief in the goodness of humanity with every trip. Dave cherished the simple pleasure of being amidst nature with his beloved dogs, wife, and friends.

Dave’s strong faith played an integral part in his life. He was an active member of several churches throughout his earthly journey including White City Baptist, Thousand Oaks Baptist, Shearer Hills Baptist, and Crossbridge Community Church. David was deeply involved in every church he attended, sharing his talents in the choir, his service as a deacon, and his welcoming spirit as a greeter and usher.

Perhaps one of Dave's most significant joys was becoming a Pawpaw. Each grandchild brought a unique light to his life. With Maggie, he discovered the pleasure of shared adventures like kayaking in the Comal. He also enjoyed supporting her in her various activities and sports. His brief time with his grandson was filled to the brim with love and laughter. Pawpaw loved to play with blocks, cars, and trains and to play outside with AJ. He taught him to try to figure out how things work and put things together.

Those who knew Dave will remember him as a selfless man, whose creativity was matched only by his faith-filled heart. He was a beacon of kindness, a mentor to many, and an inspiration to live a life of passion and purpose.

A creative and faith-filled individual, Dave's impact on the world was significant and meaningful, and his legacy will continue to resonate through the spaces he designed, the lives he touched, and the love he shared. He will be profoundly missed, but the memories he created will be forever cherished by all who were privileged to know him.

VISITATIONMONDAY, AUGUST 05, 20246:00 PM - 8:00 PMPORTER LORING MORTUARY NORTH

FUNERAL SERVICETUESDAY, AUGUST 06, 202411:00 AMPORTER LORING MORTUARY NORTH

Interment to follow at Holy Cross Cemetery.

Please click her to view the service livestream